India Ready to Share Counter-Terror Expertise with ASEAN, Says Rajnath Singh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated on Thursday (October 29, 2026) that India is prepared to share its battle-tested counter-terrorism expertise with ASEAN and its dialogue partners. Speaking at the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) conclave in Cebu, Philippines, he highlighted Operation Sindoor as an example of New Delhi's clear approach against state-sponsored terrorism.

Key Highlights from the ADMM-Plus Conclave

• Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: Mr. Singh offered practical expertise gained over decades of confronting cross-border security challenges.
• Maritime Security: The Defence Minister emphasized that India will continue acting as a trusted net security provider in the Indian Ocean and the wider Indo-Pacific region.
• Bilateral Discussions: Mr. Singh reportedly conveyed India's concerns regarding the U.S. F-16 package for Pakistan and cross-border terrorism during talks with U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.

Regional Stability and UNCLOS

Addressing maritime trade route disruptions, Mr. Singh asserted that statements alone are insufficient. He reiterated India's support for an Indo-Pacific grounded in the rule of law, specifically highlighting the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) to ensure freedom of navigation and overflight without targeting any specific nation.

Verification and Practical Implications

Observers can verify these statements through official Ministry of Defence press releases and authenticated reports from the ADMM-Plus summit.